Reusable Pouches!

I've been meaning to consolidate all my favorites on baby food and big kid puree feeding into one post so here goes. When Nolan was just a baby I was always telling Tim how neat it would be if they had reusable something similar to the applesauce and babyhood pouches that were just hitting the market. one day we were in Babies r Us and I saw the first one. I seriously texted the picture to everyone I could and bought the overpriced $20+ dollar silicone Beaba brand pouch. Sadly, although I tried often Nolan never took to it. It was hard to suck from unlike the store bought disposable ones and had a huge capacity so either I kept it half full or I wasted a bunch. It was relegated to the closet and life went on.

When it came time for Carter to start solids we got lucky.  I won an Infantino test party to try out their Fresh Squeeze system. You can see the full review here.  We still use it and plan to again with Oliver. Since then I've learned to love the reusable zippered pouches. I have two favorite brands but there are tons on the market and all are similar. Big things to consider when purchasing is ease of cleaning and size. Larger isn't always better! I do love having one or two large pouches perfect for taking smoothies on the go. Otherwise the standard size works great for babies, toddlers, and school aged lunch boxes. I've also made ahead large batches and froze directly in both of my recommended pouches (below). They worked perfectly and stored nicely no leaking.

Yummi Pouches and U-Fill are my favorite. U-Fill are most affordable at only $1 a piece when purchased in bulk but Yummi pouches are cute and stylish. The side nozzle on the decorative Yummi pouches is also very easy for all of mine to eat from in case you're wondering. I've done a few large orders and it's always easy to get a few friends to go in on the 100-pk.

Nolan with the smoothie size pouch.

In another 3 short months we'll start on the journey of solids with Oliver and I'm sure I'll have fun recipes posts again!!

Packing our Snacks

Disclosure: I received this product in order to facilitate a review.
I am always on the lookout for portable snack containers that can be reused, are safe for our foods, and don't leak all over our lunch bags. I pretty much have to carry something full of snacks and drinks on me at all times with two small kids. My boys are on a restricted diet (gluten free) and C is an insanely picky eater so I have to be prepared with a large variety of food items but don't always need a large quantity. Here's a typical snack/meal for us!

Prepping this sort of meal requires a lot of packing so I was happy to try out the MIRA stainless steel mini containers. They are food grade stainless steel containers with BPA free plastic lids. I loved that they were small enough to easily fit in our lunch bags and just hold a few ounces, 5 to be exact. The lids stay on and even hold in liquidy items like canned fruits and hummus two of our must haves! Carter likes to hold his own snacks so many times he grabs the bases while eating. They've easily  survived throws onto the floor!

If you're looking for something small, spill proof, and safe for your food and snacks check out MIRA!!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Juice in the Box

UPDATE: Yesterday (4/29/14) Carter took his JITB on a stroller ride. he knocked it over from the tray onto the concrete and the small part that holds the lid hinge on broke off. It wasn't a rough throw just a normal fall after he accidentally nudged it.  It's still useable at home but we can't take it anywhere as the lid is completely attached and it would drip and make a mess. I contacted precidio and they said they are aware of this happening to a few others and they are looking into making it even more durable. In the meantime they offer to replace for $9.99. Hopefully their next design will include a full removable lid!!


Disclosure: I received this product for free in order to facilitate my review.

 
Carter has been testing out an awesome juicebox alternative the last few weeks. If you've ever read my blog, you know I'm crazy for green, reusable products over those we just throw away. Check out my cloth diaper's info to see just how much we like reusable!!

The Juice in the Box (JITB) refillable and reusable drink container is just what we needed to let our littlest feel a part of the party while still controlling exactly what he's drinking. Since it arrived, I've taken JITB out to eat, to birthday parties, and used it at everyday meals.

Made from Tritan, a BPA and Phthalate Free plastic, it's virtually indestructible. Ask me how many times it's been thrown across the room already!! The top portion pops off and has a soft seal to prevent leaks. The straw folds under the lid for portability yet it is still easy for little ones to drink from. I try to keep it upright in our lunchbox once filled to prevent the straw from dripping some but overall it does not leak excessively. It's about as leak proof as every sippy cup we've ever found.

When Carter sees the JITB he always points and yells "Wawa" asking for water in it! It also helps to entertain him and make him feel like a big boy when everyone else has restaurant cups or kids have disposable juice boxes. 

We love our Juice in the Box or as we use it mainly water with a splash of juice in the box!! I'm excited to have gotten to try one and now Nolan also wants his own. If you need a unique gift this is something moms of toddlers through school-agers can appreciate! These would be perfect for Easter baskets and stocking stuffers too!!



I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.